Question
The pediatric blood cell morphology examination report shows thrombocytopenia. What could be the cause, and what precautions should be taken?
Answer
Primary immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an immunological disorder that often occurs after recovery from acute viral upper respiratory tract infections. More than half of chronic ITP patients can be detected with anti-platelet antibodies in their serum, which may be related to defects in cellular immune function, splenic factors, and estrogen levels. Acute ITP cases typically have a self-limiting course, with most patients recovering spontaneously, with an average duration of 4 to 6 weeks. Chronic cases may require treatment with platelet-raising drugs, adrenal cortical hormones, immunosuppressants, and immunoglobulins. In some cases, splenectomy surgery may be considered.